Local Design Manager

Overview

DATA4'S MISSION

DATA4 creates Smart & Scalable digital facilities for our customers. Our network of highly connected, resilient and sustainable data center campuses underpins our customers’ digital growth in Europe.

DATA4 Group finances, designs, constructs and operates its own data centers. Delivered through our data center campus model, we provide our customers with secure, scalable and high-performance data hosting solutions.

About The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Data Center Local Design Manager to join our Design & Construction department. This transversal role reports to the Head of Engineering and acts as the key interface between central SMEs (Electrical, Mechanical, BMS, etc.) and local project stakeholders (PMs, GCs). Your mission is to coordinate design communication, ensure that approved designs are properly applied on site, and support the delivery of projects within budget, on schedule, and in full compliance with DATA4 standards and local regulations.

Responsibilities

• Design Leadership & Coordination: Serve as primary design liaison between central SMEs and local execution teams.
• Translate central design standards into actionable guidance for local contractors and PMs.
• Monitor design implementation during construction and resolve discrepancies.
• Support budget and schedule adherence by identifying design-related risks.
• Facilitate constructive transparency in all communications, maintaining accurate documentation.
• Technical Expertise and Representation: Provide technical guidance and support to internal stakeholders across various departments.
• Represent the company in external project meetings, discussions, and negotiations with vendors and consultants.
• Communicate clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences, ensuring transparency and understanding.
• Manage and maintain project-related technical documentation.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead lessons learned sessions and maintain a knowledge base for future projects; identify opportunities for process optimization and implement best practices; support innovation in design workflows and digital tools.

Requirements

• Education and experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or Architecture or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in data center design and construction or equivalent experience in critical infrastructure.
• Proven track record of success in leading and executing complex engineering projects.
• English: fluent
• Technical skills
• Risk management and regulatory compliance expertise
• General understanding of data center thermal management, power distribution, and fire suppression systems.
• Experience with commissioning and startup
• Experience with data center infrastructure management software (DCIM) focusing on electrical systems.
• Experience with project management methodologies and best practices.

Soft skills

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive: Takes initiative and ownership of tasks without needing constant direction.
• Accountable: Admits mistakes, learns from them, and delivers on commitments.
• Agile: Learns quickly and applies new knowledge in practical situations.
• Collaborative: Works effectively with diverse teams and adapts communication styles accordingly.
• Resilient: Maintains a positive attitude and composure under all situations.
• Independent: Works autonomously and takes calculated risks.
• Data-driven: Makes decisions based on evidence and analysis.

Note: This description excludes dynamic platform notices and unrelated postings.